Special Opportunities

At Elmhurst, we know that well-rounded scholars need varied environments to stimulate their minds and provide experience.

That’s why the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers so many opportunities to engage the outside world and expand your skills.

Chemistry Seminar

Once a week, junior- and senior-level majors meet to “talk chemistry.” We host outside speakers; students present papers or the results of their research; and we discuss topics of interest to us, such as graduate school or relevant issues involving chemistry. The professional skills learned in these classes are the building blocks needed for successful careers.

Internships

You’ll get a head start on success by taking advantage of our extensive internship, shadowing and mentorship opportunities. Students interested in the health professions benefit from Elmhurst’s health professions advising, which connects students with internships and many other professional opportunities.

Those interested in graduate school in chemistry or biochemistry are encouraged to apply to federally funded summer research programs. Some internships lead to full-time employment in desirable positions—and all provide the kinds of experience that make employers take notice.

Recent Internship and Summer Research Sites

Student Organizations

Elmhurst is home to a chapter of the National Science Teachers Association and an active student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS).

The ACS chapter offers a wide range of activities. Chemistry students can:

• Participate in local and national conferences
• Present their scholarly work in professional journals
• Attend seminars
• Interact with working professionals

The group also organizes local field trips to laboratories and schedules numerous social activities throughout the year, including an annual holiday party held at a faculty member’s home.